Paradise Country | Gold Coast

Paradise Country is a popular Australian wildlife park located in Oxenford, on the Gold Coast, Queensland. The park offers visitors a chance to experience Australian wildlife in a natural, immersive setting, with a focus on native animals, hands-on experiences, and interactive shows. It’s a fantastic family-friendly attraction that showcases Australia's unique wildlife and provides educational opportunities for visitors of all ages.

1. Overview and Location

Location: Paradise Country is located just 20 minutes from Surfers Paradise and is part of the larger Dreamworld precinct on the Gold Coast. The park’s lush, open-air environment is designed to resemble the Australian outback, providing an authentic experience of Australia’s natural beauty and wildlife.

Theme: Paradise Country combines wildlife conservation, education, and entertainment, offering visitors a chance to get up close with native Australian animals in an environment designed to mimic the wild.

2. Wildlife and Animals

Paradise Country is home to a wide variety of iconic Australian animals, many of which are native to the country’s outback and coastal regions. Some of the animals you can see at the park include:

Koalas: Get up close to Australia’s iconic koalas, with opportunities to take photos and learn about their natural habitat and behavior.

Kangaroos: Visitors can hand-feed and interact with friendly kangaroos in designated areas, providing an exciting hands-on experience.

Wallabies: These smaller cousins of kangaroos are often seen hopping around in the park’s outback-themed areas.

Dingos: Learn about these wild dogs, which are an important part of Australia’s ecosystem.

Emus: These large, flightless birds can be spotted wandering the grounds.

Crocodiles: Paradise Country houses both freshwater and saltwater crocodiles, and there are educational presentations to teach visitors about these prehistoric creatures.

Farm Animals: The park also has a selection of farm animals, including sheep, goats, pigs, and chickens, making it a great place for kids to interact with animals.

3. Interactive Experiences

Paradise Country offers a range of interactive activities for visitors, making it an exciting, hands-on experience for all ages:

Koala Photo Opportunity: One of the main attractions is the chance to hold and take photos with a koala (subject to availability and regulations). Visitors can learn about the koala’s habits and habitat while getting a close-up look at these adorable marsupials.

Kangaroo Feeding: Visitors can hand-feed kangaroos and learn about their social behavior, diet, and conservation efforts.

Animal Shows and Demonstrations: Paradise Country offers regular animal demonstrations and talks where visitors can learn about different species, their care, and the environment in which they live. These shows are both educational and entertaining.

Farmyard Fun: Children can enjoy interacting with farm animals like pigs, goats, and chickens. It’s a perfect opportunity for them to learn about life on the farm and get involved in feeding and petting the animals.

Cuddle a Koala and Other Wildlife Encounters: Besides koalas, you can also get up close with other wildlife like snakes, lizards, and birds of prey in special encounters where you can touch and learn about these creatures.

4. Shows and Presentations

Paradise Country offers several live animal shows that educate visitors about Australian wildlife and conservation efforts. These shows are an engaging way to learn about the behaviors and habits of animals, and they often involve interactive elements where guests can ask questions or even participate.

Farm Animal Shows: These shows focus on the life of a farm, demonstrating animal care and farming practices. It’s an informative and fun way to understand farm life in Australia.

5. Australian Outback Theme

Paradise Country’s design is inspired by the Australian outback, featuring rustic buildings, wide open spaces, and natural landscapes that provide a backdrop for the animals. The park is designed to showcase the outdoor, rugged nature of Australia while providing guests with a relaxed environment to enjoy the animals and exhibits.

6. Dining and Refreshments

Country Café: Paradise Country has a café where visitors can enjoy a selection of light meals, snacks, and refreshments. It’s a great place to relax and refuel while enjoying the views of the surrounding countryside.

Picnic Areas: There are also picnic areas available for visitors who prefer to bring their own food and enjoy a meal in the park's natural setting.

7. Educational Opportunities

Paradise Country is committed to educating visitors about wildlife conservation and the importance of protecting Australia’s native species. Through interactive exhibits, live shows, and educational talks, visitors gain a deeper understanding of how Australia’s wildlife lives, the challenges they face, and efforts to conserve and protect them.

Conservation Efforts: The park works in collaboration with other conservation organizations to support the protection of Australian wildlife and promote awareness about the issues affecting them.

8. Family-Friendly Activities

Paradise Country is an excellent choice for family outings, offering a safe and engaging environment for children to learn about and interact with animals. There are plenty of play areas, and kids can enjoy getting close to animals in the petting zoo and taking part in animal feeding activities.

Interactive Programs for Kids: Special programs and tours are available for children, which include hands-on activities and learning opportunities about the animals.

9. Event Hosting and Group Visits

Birthday Parties and Group Visits: Paradise Country is a great venue for hosting birthday parties and group visits. The park offers special packages for schools, families, and corporate groups, including guided tours and animal encounters.

10. Opening Hours and Admission

Opening Hours: Paradise Country is generally open daily, but it’s advisable to check the official website for any changes in operating hours. The park may have extended hours during peak seasons.

Ticket Prices: Admission prices can vary depending on the season and whether you are purchasing tickets as part of a package deal. It’s common for tickets to include access to the park, animal shows, and photo opportunities.

11. Conclusion

Paradise Country offers an authentic, engaging, and family-friendly experience where visitors can learn about Australia’s unique wildlife and the country’s outback heritage. With its variety of native animals, interactive experiences, and educational programs, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the essence of Australia’s wildlife in a fun and immersive environment. Whether you’re holding a koala, feeding kangaroos, or watching a live animal show, Paradise Country promises a memorable experience for all ages.